Perfect Weather and Trip for Nature Selfies.
- Bob Perry
- Jun 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 1
2025 06–01 SB Channel
Captain Danny and the crew crossed The Channel and ended up at the West End of Santa Cruz Island and the Painted Cave area. Seas were calm. The light morning stratus layer burned off to bright sun. Sightings for the day: 1 blue shark, 300 common dolphins, 7 humpback whales and 40+ California sea lions.
The crew removed three balloons (Death Bags) From the ocean surface. As a side note to you mothers out there, most of the balloons we have found this week carried a bold “Happy Mother’s Day” message. You may consider asking your offspring to celebrate you in a less lethal manner next year… Just a suggestion from the crew!
Not long after we left The Harbor a very small blue shark was seen finning on the surface. We had a good quick look and continued on our way west. North of The Lanes a nice pod of dolphins located the Condor Express and became very friendly. A great opportunity for those dolphin selfies!
Later, in the Separation Zone, we found 4 humpbacks. There were 2 solo adult adults and a cow/calf pair. They were situated in a moderately strong birdnado which developed around a large bait ball near the surface. The whales made several close approaches to the Condor Express. A great opportunity for those whale selfies!
Just outside The Cave there were 3 more whales, a single and a pair. They seem to be following a mob of California sea lions who may have been aligned with another bait ball. (See today’s photo for an example).
You never know what Mother Nature has in store.
Bob Perry
